Statement of Significance (as of designation - January 29, 1964):The splendid anchorage at Pearl Harbor was one of the principal reasons for early American interest in Hawaii, and undoubtedly the strategic importance of this bay was a factor leading to annexation of Hawaii. The development of a naval base and headquarters here after 1898 were important factors in the rise of U.S. naval power in the Pacific. The dispute of this power by Japan eventually contributed to the precipitation of war between the United States and Japan, the significant opening shots of which occurred at Pearl Harbor on the morning of December 7, 1941. Pearl Harbor's mission is support of the fleet, and for most of the last century it has sheltered, armed, and repaired naval ships, submarines, and aircraft. Ford Island, most well-known as the location of Battleship Row, suffered devastating damage during the Japanese attack on December 7, 1941. Evidence of the attack can still be seen.

Condition:The Navy has recently demolished Buildings 1C and 4 and is proposing the demolition of Building 8, a contributing structure in the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. The Navys proposal to construct a significant number of housing units on Ford Island may result in the demolition of additional contributing historic buildings. 75 acres of waterfront property at Battleship Row has been opened for development. The new development designs indicate that the new construction may involve demolition of contributing historic buildings. Anti-terrorist force protection measures, as yet not implemented, could result in further demolition or alteration to historic buildings and landscapes. All of the projects could have a significant adverse impact on the historic resources and alter the appearance of major portions of the island. The developments could also have adverse impacts on two other National Historic Landmarks, the USS Arizona and the USS Utah. Demolition of a contributing building earlier this year and proposed demolition of an additional contributing building with further threaten the integrity of the NHL.

A new programmatic agreement was signed in the spring of 2003, which reflects a cooperative effort amongst the signatories in the management of this large, active NHL district.